Job seekers in the Harrogate district, who are unfamiliar with computers and the internet, are being urged to hop aboard the HUGO (Helping U Get Online) bus to see how modern technology can help their search for employment and ensure that they aren’t getting left behind in the digital world.
With 72% of employers saying they wouldn’t consider applicants for any job who don’t have basic IT skills, it has never been more important to get online. Of the estimated 8.4 million people in the UK who are not online, research shows around half live in social housing. With more crucial services, such as Universal Credit and Universal Job Match moving online, people without internet skills and access face major disadvantages.
The HUGO bus, which is run by Leeds Federated Housing Association, will be visiting Harrogate in October and November with the aim of improving the computer skills of the community.
The bus, which features five workstations and high-speed internet access, is manned by a team of ‘digital champions’ from a range of organisations, including Harrogate Borough Council, HUGO and a number of housing associations, who will offer advice and support to help people make the best use of computers and the internet.
Services on offer will include help with creating CV’s and covering letters, tips on searching for a job online, the best ways of completing online application forms, and advice on many of the relevant services which are accessible on the web. The bus also offers basic IT training to show how people can use mobile technology, free use of computers and the internet, and provides a free Wi-Fi hotspot around the vehicle for anyone to use. They will also sign post people to on-going learning opportunities in libraries and community centres.
In addition to job hunting, HUGO aims to show people how the internet can help them in their everyday lives, making using computers and the internet fun, while improving confidence and highlighting the practical benefits of being online.
The HUGO bus will be parked on Prospect Crescent in Harrogate from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday 21 October and Tuesday 11 November and on the Jennyfields estate in Harrogate (in the car park near to the Cooperative Store) from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday 28 October and Tuesday 4 November.
Want to know more? Find HUGO on Facebook or Twitter @thehugofamily or call the HUGO team on 0113 386 1000 for more information.